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Stalled! :o( I have a great site, but now what?

by KnowOneKnows
46 replies
Update: Many thanks to all who made suggestions. to my earlier version of this post, but I didn't get any feedback as to whether the quality of my product is acceptable.

The biggest issue I have now is: If I create a video course by basically scrolling down the pages of my site and reading the content, plus making some comments, will this be good enough quality to sell. I know it's not HD studio quality, but it's the best I can do for now. Here's a sample of what it would look like: https://middleage.org/video_overview/

I could market the video version of the site in lesson format. There would be about 80 videos, each around 5-8 minutes long. I am thinking of a low price-point to start with, maybe $97, with half-off for the first 50 people, and see how it sells. People could also listen to them on their mobile devices. I have been advised I could get a lot more, but the videos are really just me reading the Website with a few comments.

Anyway, that's where I am at. I am grateful for any and all advice you may have. Also, if any kind soul is open to working with me as I get this rolling, that would be great. Not to play the violin, but I am offering a great service to help people improve their lives and that of the planet.


Thanks a lot! )
#great #site #stalled
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  • Profile picture of the author smartprofitmoney
    Originally Posted by KnowOneKnows View Post

    First of all, thanks to the people on this forum who help so many, and freely share their knowledge. ) Special thanks go to those who have helped me with my past questions.


    Please know that I truly value the advice everyone gives me. Some I will use right away, some later, some maybe not use, but all are appreciated.


    So here's my situation.


    I have what I believe is a great Website and concept, but I have become stalled due to uncertainty, and so I come to you asking your advice.


    I've created a Website at middleage.org (https://middleage.org/ ) for the purpose of helping middle-aged (and older) people improve their lives. It has 13 sections and covers topics like fitness, diet, goal-setting, etc. There is a lot of content (100,000+ words), but that's how much was needed to provide a complete course, if you will. I also created the site based on the premise "Make people trust you and they'll buy everything you have".


    The site design is very-simple, no edgy sliding graphics, etc. I figure that older people want something more mellow, and plus a simpler design makes me look like I'm not trying to hustle them. I have had some criticism of the design, and I am not saying I won't change it ever, but I don't think it's a deal-breaker. I'm really not down for the format with endless ads on each page in the second or third column, although I might consider some variation.


    Besides my unique 13-step program, I'm 73, and in super-shape. Without fail, when I am out and about, if age comes up, people guess me to be in my 50's. If you see my site, you'll see images of me doing indoor rock-climbing and mountain biking. I'm not bragging, just stating that I feel this is a huge benefit to giving me credibility. If you are aware of Seth Godin's marketing philosophy, I can be a tribe leader.


    I have made arrangements to get a short (2-3 minute) professional video recorded of me doing kettlebell training, sandbag training and animal flow training, which is training that I do 6 days a week. I would use this to establish credibility and then use another 3 minutes or so to explain my program. It would be on the index page above the fold, with a "Click here for a short video overview of the site". To get an idea of what it might look like (without the new video), click here: https://middleage.org/video_overview/
    I have had advice from several people here that my site has too much content. In response, a couple of months ago I created 80 short (5-8 minute) videos of my program, basically just a video of me, scrolling down the site pages, and making some comments. I took them off the site due to low quality, but I have since purchased a high-quality microphone, and can thus re-record them.


    I had the idea a couple of months ago to create a step-by-step online course with lessons (and possibly quizzes) that match the 80 videos. In this way, people would be more motivated to utilize the course, as they could keep track of where they were at. I could thus have a unique product, sell the course, and make some money.


    Unfortunately, I have become stalled, as I am unsure of what my next steps are.


    Probably the most-troubling question is how to monetize the site. Here are some ideas I have. Please feel free to give me your valued advice.


    1) I do have around 300 eBooks and eBook/video products in my online store, but have only sold one for $6 in 2 years. They are on topics that are related to the site contents. They could be promoted through the newsletter, popups, etc. I have been giving away a $5 coupon in every newsletter to try to get people into the store and then buy other materials, but no luck. On the other hand, I only have about 12 subscribers, and most of those not active.


    2) I could market the video version of the site in lesson format, as mentioned above. There would be about 80 videos, each around 5-8 minutes long. I am thinking of a low price-point to start with, maybe $97, with half-off for the first 50 people, and see how it sells. People could also listen to them on their mobile devices. I have been advised I could get a lot more, but the videos are really just me reading the Website with a few comments.


    3) I have a couple of affiliate offers, an ultimate exercise bike, kettlebells, and an animal flow video course. I like the idea of promoting a high-quality product through affiliate offers, and not having to deal with customers, so I will likely have more of them.
    Likely some of you masters on the forum will have much-better ideas. )


    A word on site promotion seems in order. My plan all along has been to promote the site through articles which I have written and can write many more of. I plan to submit them to sites like the Huffington Post, Pop Sugar, etc. I figure that one article on the right site could bring me 5,000 newsletter signups.


    I basically have the site somewhat setup for SEO, but my belief is that SEO is not worth the time and money, as if you're not among the first 20 results or less, you might as well be number 2,000.


    I am open to other ways I might promote the site.


    Anyway, that's where I am at. I am grateful for any and all advice you may have. Also, if any kind soul is open to working with me as I get this rolling, that would be great. Not to play the violin, but I am offering a great service to help people improve their lives and that of the planet.


    Thanks a lot! )
    Hello,

    Well I do like your niche, but to make money, you have to change and add lots of things

    You have to add lead capture, on home page, and more, add store, with many products, and design , navigation or theme, could be changed, I know you know this, but, old people like simple themes, but make it simple and classy.

    Then do major SEO, marketing, and videos,

    Thanks Rob
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    Custom Blog Design, WordPress & FaceBook Expert
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  • Profile picture of the author Tom Addams
    Hi, KnowOneKnows.

    I see lots of potential, but you have a lot of work on your hands. A single reply to your post would take up most of the day (literally), so I'll offer up a suggestion in regards fundamentals.

    Audience.

    Know this: you will always care more about MiddleAge.org than your audience. Furthermore, the very first instinct of Joe and Jane Consumer arriving at MA is to dislike it. No matter what you do - no matter how skilled you become - it will be you who holds MA in the highest regard.

    That - is the first thing you need to understand and accept.

    Your goal is to get people to like MA as much as they can be expected to like it. If the letter A is equal to Dislike and Z equates to Like, then all of the letters in between should be viewed as walls that you need to break down, therefore allowing for the flow of Joe and Janes to arrive at Like.

    I mention the word "fundamental" above. If you adopt this A to Z mindset in regards Like and Dislike, you'll begin to more clearly perceive how to deal with all of the fundamental elements of MA: development, management, growth. These are primary and ongoing concerns for you.

    You use the "I like" phrase in your post:

    I like the idea of promoting a high-quality product through affiliate offers, and not having to deal with customers, so I will likely have more of them.
    Remove "I like" from your lexicon. What you like is irrelevant. I like writing film screenplays, but since Hollywood isn't knocking down my door (utter gits that they are), I serve up media that, first and foremost, audiences like.

    Audience comes first.

    You come second.

    Now just consider how that simple piece of knowledge - once we, as marketers, accept it - can impact, at a fundamental level, an entire online business.

    1. We design our platforms for the audience.
    2. We deliver media for the audience.
    3. We monetize for the audience.
    4. We syndicate our media for the audience.
    5. We integrate audience collection for the audience.
    6. We write for the audience.
    7. We make images for the audience.
    8. We make videos for the audience.
    9. We use this phrase and that phrase for the audience.

    Literally every element of MA - small to large - is for the audience.

    Reverse-Engineer.

    The best way I can help you (in a single forum post) is to encourage you to consider my words above about audience and then begin a process of reverse-engineering competitors in your market.

    Shall I tell you why? (Would be a bit of a useless sodding post, Tom, if you didn't.)

    Some of your competition will have been in the market for 10 years, for 15 years, for 20 years, perhaps longer. And what does that mean? Well, it means a great deal, but in this case we're talking about one thing: KNOWLEDGE.

    Think about it.

    In the MA market? You're a baby. You've been in the market for hardly any time at all. Consider, then, how much you'll know about that market after you've been alive and kicking in it for 10, 15, or 20 years. Imagine the difference between Current You and Future You.

    Imagine further: imagine the business Future You will own.

    That business will be finely tuned to operate in the market. It may even be a market leader. Literally every aspect of that Future You Business will be optimized for efficiency.

    Everything from the turn of phrases used in article content to the very floor, walls, and ceiling of that business (design) will be expertly honed according to a simple philosophy.

    This philosophy: Audience comes first and You come second.

    So . . .

    Those other markets? They entered the market years ago and their operations in the market should become your education. And you can learn everything you need to learn.

    1. Look at the players in your market.
    2. Note down common elements.
    3. Use WF to learn about those elements.
    4. Restructure MA accordingly.

    MA does have a great deal of potential.

    Trouble is, you've made the newbie mistake of taking action (which, in itself, is good) without first putting together a plan and an infrastructure that is going to work. The design alone, for instance, is killing you.

    You'll hopefully get a lot of good advice in this thread. None of it, however, will beat the usefulness of education you receive from two things, falling under two headings:

    Audience and Reverse-Engineer.

    Don't get discouraged. Keep at it.

    Cheers,

    Tom
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  • Profile picture of the author helisell
    Create a lead capture section.

    Offer something of value for FREE.

    Looking at the site you should consider offering a guide of where to start.

    Set up an email sequence that sends people to the various sections/videos/offers already on your site.

    What do you have for sale on here (without me spending a long time looking for it)?

    With all that content you just need to step back and look at the simple steps.

    P.M. me if you want a quick (20 mins or so) free coaching session on where to go with this.

    I think you are sitting on something with a lot of potential here. Well done.
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    Making Calls To Sell Something? What are you actually saying?
    Is there any room for improvement? Want to find out?

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  • Profile picture of the author Oziboomer
    Hi Brian,

    You may have a lot of great content but the design and stock images let you down for a start.

    There is something missing and that is the connection to the viewer of the site.

    Each person is unique but may have common issues which you identify by your "sections"

    Big problem is any prospect might have a specific or combination of problems and there is not a clear calling out to that prospect to start a relationship or journey with you.

    At each stage of your prospect's journey you want light a clear path for them to take to progress through the stages of awareness and self identification of their problems through to solutions you might offer.

    At each step you must provide a pathway to move that person along.

    Although this article is on optimising content to match search criteria you may find it helpful when it comes to designing pathways for your prospects - Accelerate Your Customer Journey with intent based search optimisation -- Tenxcel

    As you would appreciate older people do tend to believe they already have the answer for their problems or they already know where to look to obtain the answers they seek.

    If someone is searching for answers to some of their older age problems it might help to have content that is highly targeted to a specific problem and then gently leads them towards trusting your solutions.

    For example, you have a heading "financial abundance" but someone might be looking for advice about "reverse mortgages"

    The possibility in this situation might be someone desires financial abundance but the reality is their assets are tied up in property and they are searching for sound advice and support surrounding releasing some of their assets so they can enjoy their retirement.

    Rather than stock images of wealthy or happy couples etc you would talk about the cold hard facts surrounding how to enjoy your money in older life and protecting your assets for your family.

    You could for example write a comparison piece where you compared reverse mortgage lenders. Articles like that become core material that generates traffic. They can also have downloadable content for reading offline.

    You can also make the content in larger font sizes so older people can read easily. etc etc.

    If someone browses a piece of content about finance or mortgages etc then you can provide a clear path related to that specific prospect's needs.

    Likewise if you provided "Top ten exercises for 70 year olds" "80 year olds" "60 year olds" etc you have segmented your audience and you can then move them along a path.

    Each of your sections is really a segment and some cross pollinate but you need to develop the pathway that ultimately moves someone towards becoming a paying customer.

    Is there currently a "fitness guru" or "heathy age guru" out there?

    Who are they?

    Can you become that guru?

    To do that you need to move people from "unaware" to "aware" to "prospect" to "subscriber" to "customer" to "member" to "advocate"

    Sort out your funnels and how you want each segment to progress.

    Partner up with people who have your ideal prospects.

    Move your ideal prospects along the path.

    I want to see an event where you gather those people.

    Where they climb those walls and you celebrate together.

    Best regards,

    Ozi
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  • Profile picture of the author Jonathan 2.0
    Banned
    Firstly, what an awesome idea/Website. : )

    Just something I would consider is hiring someone to change your Website Design slightly ... All of the essential elements and content are there ...
    However (not be "rude" or anything) the overall design elements look kind of "amateurish."

    An awesome idea deserves and awesome Website ... So I hope you consider this advice.
    : )

    Jonathan
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    "Each problem has hidden in it an opportunity so powerful that it literally dwarfs the problem. The greatest success stories were created by people who recognized a problem and turned it into an opportunity."―Joseph Sugarman
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Jonathan...Spiritual Warrior! Thanks for the kudos! (I can use them right about now). I have intended to a degree to have that look, as I believe it engenders trust. That having been said, do you have any sample sites or themes you might suggest? I seriously am open to changing the design, as many have suggested it. Thanks again!
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      • Profile picture of the author Jonathan 2.0
        Banned
        Originally Posted by KnowOneKnows View Post

        Jonathan...Spiritual Warrior! Thanks for the kudos! (I can use them right about now). I have intended to a degree to have that look, as I believe it engenders trust. That having been said, do you have any sample sites or themes you might suggest? I seriously am open to changing the design, as many have suggested it. Thanks again!
        Welcome. My only advice would to be get in contact with a "Website Designer" and ask them to improve your Website. (That vast majority of them will be able to do that.)
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        • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
          Jonathan: Thanks. I already have a WP guy to do advanced stuff for me, so I'll see what he can do. )
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          • Profile picture of the author Jonathan 2.0
            Banned
            Originally Posted by KnowOneKnows View Post

            Jonathan: Thanks. I already have a WP guy to do advanced stuff for me, so I'll see what he can do. )
            Cool. : ) Your Wedsite doesn't have to be "perfect" ... You can always improve it over time
            .
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            "Each problem has hidden in it an opportunity so powerful that it literally dwarfs the problem. The greatest success stories were created by people who recognized a problem and turned it into an opportunity."―Joseph Sugarman
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            • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
              Jonathan...any ideas on monetizing? )
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              • Profile picture of the author Jonathan 2.0
                Banned
                Originally Posted by KnowOneKnows View Post

                Jonathan...any ideas on monetizing? )
                Maybe build an eMail list and provide them with (even more) advice/guidance/etc ... Then offer them an (affiliate) Product that's congruent with your advice.

                2C
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                • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
                  Jonathan: OK. That's been my plan from the start, but I am having a hard time getting signups. I've had free eBook offers, etc. but minimal luck (13 people in 2 years). Analytics shows I am getting about 2,200 pageviews a month. Any ideas? Thanks for the ongoing advice. )
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                  • Profile picture of the author Jonathan 2.0
                    Banned
                    Originally Posted by KnowOneKnows View Post

                    I've had free eBook offers, etc. but minimal luck (13 people in 2 years). Analytics shows I am getting about 2,200 pageviews a month. Any ideas?
                    I honestly don't have anything else to suggest. However I'm certain that if you stay with it, you will (eventually) start seeing more success.

                    Like I said, it's a great idea. : )

                    HTH.
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    • Profile picture of the author PPG19
      Originally Posted by Jonathan 2.0 View Post

      Firstly, what an awesome idea/Website. : )

      Just something I would consider is hiring someone to change your Website Design slightly ... All of the essential elements and content are there ...
      However (not be "rude" or anything) the overall design elements look kind of "amateurish."

      An awesome idea deserves and awesome Website ... So I hope you consider this advice.
      : )

      Jonathan
      What's the awesome idea here? To promote to middle age people? Am i missing something?
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      • Profile picture of the author Jonathan 2.0
        Banned
        Originally Posted by PPG19 View Post

        What's the awesome idea here? To promote to middle age people? Am i missing something?
        Good point. I didn't pay much attention to the Website before commenting. Just seemed like a "good" concept.
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  • Profile picture of the author Jonleecontent
    It's either 1 of 2 things.

    The first Occam's razor answer is your content isn't good enough. If you have 300 products and have sold 6 I'd wager all the tea in china this is the problem.

    The second answer is that you have no idea how to distribute it to your audience of middle aged people.

    Luckily for you I'm going to help you figure this out for $200 in Fb ads.

    If your content isn't the problem you should be able to hire a graphic artist for like $50 to put together a graphic of your best product. You'll use your FB business page (create one if you don't have it) to run an ad for $20 a day for 7 days. You can granularly target FB ad audiences to exact age and interest demographics if your audience exists you can get this ad in front of them on FB.

    If after that 7 day test you didn't make at least 1 sale it's time to go back to the drawing board.

    Hope that helps,

    JL
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Hi JL, thanks for your response. Thanks also for the solid idea of doing a FB test. All of the products in my store are PLR's, so I don't have any "best product". Once I get one, however, this is a great way to test. I have done FB ads and testing previously, so this is a good reminder. Thanks again.
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  • Profile picture of the author Sophie005
    Facebook ads is a great way, I use them too
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  • Profile picture of the author testaccount999
    [DELETED]
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Hi Jamie, Thanks for your input, and sorry for my slow response. I wrote about 95% of the content myself, and the other 5% is either PLR material or content I was given permission to use. I may do SEO later on, and so I'll keep your advice on record. Thanks again. )
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  • Profile picture of the author TrafficFlow
    I am impressed that you are on the first page of Google for the term "Middle Age" as you have a page that provides a definition of this term. Also at least one or more of your photos appears on the first page of Google for this term. My keyword tools shows that there 18,100 persons searching per month for the term "middle age" but that CPC for the term is only .17 so adsense may not make sense.

    Good work, I imagine you must be getting some traffic to your site.
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    I will embed your video on your website with clickable link
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Thanks for your feedback; sorry for my slow response. I actually bought this domain because at the time, the existing site was getting about 15,000 hits a month from the definition page. Now I'm getting about 1,200 visitors a month, according to Analytics, and I'm not sure why, as I kept the definition the same. In any case, however, I did a lot of trials such as free ebooks, courses, surveys, etc. to get signups from the /definition page and the response was nil. Interestingly, Analytics showed that something like 70% of the visitors were under age 45. Go figure. ) Thanks again.
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  • Profile picture of the author PPG19
    The content might be great (i don't know, i haven't red it) but the site doesn't look professional, it looks amateurish. There is too much stuff in the home page and is a bit disorganized. The stock images are a big no for me. There is no design consistency and too many colors. I am going to be honest and say it looks like was designed 15 years ago.

    I would suggest, if you are serious about this new venture you are starting to get the site done by a professional. A site like this won't cost you much.

    Something to consider before you put effort or money into this site...
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Thanks for your feedback, and sorry for my late reply. I have had other similar feedback that my site design looks dated, so it must be accurate, although I sometimes feel that people in the forum are more into the latest design, and are maybe not thinking about my target audience of middle-aged people. In any case, I am going to get some bids and ideas on a redesign. Thanks again.
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  • Profile picture of the author JohnVianny
    What really lacks is EMAIL MARKETING !

    there must be a pop up with a giveaway in the home page, where you simply 'give away' one of your products and it could be better if it's a natural first step for your coaching program in the back end

    Use a professional tool like LeadPages

    Secondly, put some banner or interrupt section, or social locker for asking mail in return for more specific infos.

    Then put a DIFFERENT pop up with DIFFERENT giveaways for the most of the pages, if not everyone, the user is visiting.
    That's cause you can segment easily and there will be more engagement.

    Therefore, you need a good autoresponder.

    For your niche, and the different paths every customer could start, i suggest you go on ActiveCampaign or ConvertKit, which maybe suits better for your online digital site.

    Then build also up a opt in page, which can u advertise separately and with all these things...


    ...START BUILDING YOUR LIST SERIOUSLY!

    For doing this you need to put up different automations, for every giveaways and page and interests of your users.

    You can also do quizzes and in exchange of results ask the mail.

    So you can finally use your email list for 2 purpose:

    Give more content via mail and finally market yours or affiliate products.
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      First off, my apology for my late response to your kind post. I had some issues with the Forum posting protocol, and then got busy. I truly appreciate the substantial amount of effort you put into it.
      Next, I just realized last night that I have forgotten my original concept for my site. It was based on a quote from John Rampton which I read. He said "You build a market for your product or service by earning the trust of your users. Put out the best information possible and once people trust you they will purchase everything you have for sale."
      My goal was therefore to put out awesome info on being happy and healthy in middle age and beyond. I felt that once people saw my site and how much I knew, as well as the photos and info of my health and knowledge, they would sign up for my newsletter, and then I could market to them in that way, already having established credibility. So therefore the function of the site was to 1) establish credibility and 2) get email addresses. I haven't done any promotion because I wanted to feel that the site was ready.
      I agree with you about email marketing. It always has been the mainstay of my marketing plan. I have tried different ways to attract email signups, including exit-intent popups, floater button offering a free ebook, as well as my offer on the index page of a $20 certificate for my online store, and yet only have about 13 signups. I took the exit-intent popup off after learning that they don't work on mobile devices, but an considering putting one back up. May I have your opinion on the best popup? Exit-intent? Scroll percentage? On another related topic, I have not thought about having a different popup on every page. It seems a bit intense. Have you tried that with success? I will check out ActiveCampaign and ConvertKit. I have been using AWeber for a few years. Thanks again! )
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  • Profile picture of the author writeaway
    Here's what I'd do if I owned that awesome .org domain

    1) Invest in a MODERN design

    2) Post DEEP authority / mutli-category 2000+ articles

    3) Invest in pro squeeze page design

    4) Do EXTENSIVE outreach

    You have a great concept

    You already have a product

    The problem is the WAY you are marketing

    The platform you have looks DATED and you need to STEP IT UP so you can offer a BETTER PERCEIVED VALUE
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      First off, my apology for my late response to your kind post. I had some issues with the Forum posting protocol, and then got busy. I truly appreciate the substantial amount of effort you put into it. Also, thanks for the kudos on the domain (I own the .net too). I love your samurai-style response! Right to the point.

      Next, I just realized last night that I have forgotten my original concept for my site. It was based on a quote from John Rampton which I read. He said "You build a market for your product or service by earning the trust of your users. Put out the best information possible and once people trust you they will purchase everything you have for sale."

      My goal was therefore to put out awesome info on being happy and healthy in middle age and beyond. I felt that once people saw my site and how much I knew, as well as the photos and info of my health and knowledge, they would sign up for my newsletter, and then I could market to them in that way, already having established credibility.

      So therefore the function of the site was to 1) establish credibility and 2) get email addresses. I haven't done any promotion because I wanted to feel that the site was ready.

      After having a lot of people suggest a redesign, I'm going to do it, although I have no idea what it should look like. Can you make any suggestion or link to any site that you like? I feel that the graphics really not only break up the "wall of words", but they also bring emotion to the subject.

      Query: Where will I get/how can I afford "2,000 DEEP authority/mutli-category articles"? Even someone from the Philippines would charge a few bucks an article, I'd guess. I do have a ton of PLR ebooks on relevant topics that I could extract copy from, but they'd still cost a bunch, plus I don't know that they would qualify as "DEEP authority". I realize that you are giving me honest advice, and that may be what it takes, but do you have a workaround or suggestions on how I would do this?

      "Pro squeeze-page design" makes sense once I can afford it, although this may be a "catch-22".

      On to "EXTENSIVE outreach", are you referring to forum postings, and/or other protocols? I am planning to try to connect up with influencers.

      Thanks for the kudos on the concept. The interesting part is that it's what my life is all about these days, rather than just a money-making scheme. I workout 6 days a week, follow a vegan diet, etc.

      What do you think about me producing a video version of the site, basically me scrolling through the pages and reading them, with a few comments, and setting them up as a course that people could track their progress in? A hot product or waste of time.

      I will update the look and feel.

      Thanks a lot for your sage advice, and I hope you'll be able to respond to my queries so that I may take full advantage of it.
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  • Profile picture of the author brettb
    Nice site - you've got a similar niche to one of my friends.

    If you want to make money, focus on the relationships part of the site.

    If you want more traffic, check your web stats and enhance your best 10 pages.

    Finally maybe you could add a forum or more ways for people to interact.
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Thanks Brett, and sorry for my late reply. Thanks for your suggestions.
      When you write "relationships part of the site" are you referring to my "Satisfying Relationships" section? I do have a forum setup, but not activated yet. I like "enhance your best 10 pages." - great advice. Thanks again!
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  • Profile picture of the author Frank Donovan
    Sorry to go against the general view of awesomeness, but I don't see how any factor has changed since the OP first posted about his site in April last year. Then, as I recall, the issue was with visitors arriving at the site looking for a definition of "middle age". Not a buying audience by any stretch. Now, almost a year later, there are still little or no sales to speak of in spite of all the work done on creating content.

    In my view, it isn't about the site design, although that could be improved. It's about the concept.

    I'm what's generally described as middle aged. Most of my friends are middle aged. According to the OP, we should be his prime target market. Yet I'm pretty sure the idea of searching for information or advice using any derivative of the term "middle age" has never once occurred to us. If I want to read about nutrition, I'll research experts on the topic. Likewise for fitness and health. Maybe then, when I've found something that resonates, I'll drill down to more age-related issues within that area. As regards self-improvement and motivation, I think we've got most of that covered at our age; certainly there ain't nothing new to show us there.

    The point is, the brief is too wide and too shallow to be of anything other than passing interest. "Middle Age" isn't a niche.

    The only way to attract buying prospects is to concentrate on one specific area and laser target. However, I suspect the OP is too far invested in the concept to take that on board.
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Hi Frank, thanks for once again taking your time to advise me.

      Yes I queried months ago specifically about the lack of response from people going to my /definition page, and put that to rest at that time. Done.

      On you further comment, you are right, not a lot has been done on the site, as I have been stalled (kind of like the title of my post), and unsure what to do. I dislike the idea of spending a lot of effort going down the wrong road; don't we all? Of course, in marketing there is always trial and error, "testing the market", but I want to make my choices for trials as intelligent as possible. Hence my current post.

      Regarding "Yet I'm pretty sure the idea of searching for information or advice using any derivative of the term "middle age" has never once occurred to us. If I want to read about nutrition, I'll research experts on the topic", I have three comments. The first is thanks for this feedback. The second is that I'm not sure why you're "pretty-sure" that your friends wouldn't search for "nutrition middle age". Or "fitness middle age". These topics change as we age.

      The final one is that, as I mentioned in my post, I am not interested in SEO, or people finding me through searches. I may eat those words over time, but that's where I am at now.

      Regarding "As regards self-improvement and motivation, I think we've got most of that covered at our age; certainly there ain't nothing new to show us there". My experience in "real life" shows me otherwise. Many folks know they need to exercise, for example, but don't have the motivation; do you? )

      I hope I don't seem contentious, and I know you believe what you write, although I didn't see any advice on how I can make my site work.

      I guess that was covered by basically saying that it's of no value, and if that's your belief, I respect that it's of no value to you. If you are familiar with Seth Godin's work, then you know he says it only takes 1,000 fervent people to create a "tribe", and they will not only support a concept, but also bring others in. I will build my tribe and have epic success.
      Best wishes to you.
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  • Profile picture of the author bobmcalister
    yeah..what Tom said. Use facebook ads to target your audience. I tired to sign up for the newsletter..didnt work..I tired to get a book...link didnt open after selecting the book.
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  • Profile picture of the author SGains18
    I'd try to increase your amount of clients through email marketing; you can build a trustworthy relationship before offering them a service/product.
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Belated thanks for your input. That has been the whole idea of my site from the beginning and why I have 100,000 words of top-notch advice for free. My site is based on a quote from John Rampton. He said "You build a market for your product or service by earning the trust of your users. Put out the best information possible and once people trust you they will purchase everything you have for sale."
      My goal was therefore to put out awesome info on being happy and healthy in middle age and beyond. I felt that once people saw my site and how much I knew, as well as the photos and info of my health and knowledge, they would sign up for my newsletter, and then I could market to them in that way, already having established credibility. So therefore the function of the site was to 1) establish credibility and 2) get email addresses. But now I am told that I have too much information. (sigh) Thanks again, though.
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  • Profile picture of the author FreedomBlogger
    Hey Brian!

    First of all, congratulations on this journey, you have made it this far and still going. You have already accomplished more than most people with similar ideas.

    I'm checking out your site right now and right away I see the things you need to improve in order to benefit from each visitor as much as possible and increase your conversion rates as much as possible.

    Improve the UX (user-experience)

    This is such an important factor that most new bloggers and website owners tend to ignore.

    Your conversion rates will improve tremendously and with that search engines will start to rank your content higher as a result. This is the new way of SEO for organic traffic. (RankBrain)

    Right now, your site has very low user-experience. Yes, you do have very helpful content, but that content is all over the place and the structure of your text is not pleasant to the eye.

    So, no matter how much traffic you send to your site, it will do poorly.

    Your content is too wide.

    There is a reason why the most successful websites online have such a narrow structure. This is because studies have shown that when you make your content narrow on the screen it is a lot easier for the human eye to read and scan, resulting in a good user experience.

    If your eyes have to go from left to right a lot (from end to end), you will not want to keep reading. This is simple human psychology. (maybe you don't mind but most people do)

    Keep your content width from 600 to 800 pixels.

    Also, make your content easy to read for the reader. One to two sentences per line, I'd recommend.

    Remember; it is not about what you think looks good, it is about what actually works.

    Less is more.

    I suggest you learn about the Jam Study.This will give you a great insight into the human psychology of human behavior¶ when it comes to shopping.

    To put it in simple words, the more options you give someone, the lower the chances of them making a decision.

    Your audience targeting has to be super precise.

    Here is the interesting fact; when you try to help everyone you help no one, but when you try to help someone you help everyone. Hope this makes sense to you.

    Think about that one person you want to help and create your content thinking that one person only. Chances are, there are millions who are just like that one person.

    In other words, become that guy who can help with just one to two problems and is a master in the subjects.

    The more topics you want to teach, the fewer people you will reach.

    Don't fall into this trap of wanting to teach on every topic.

    Pay attention to the most successful people online - they are masters of a few topics, not all - in their field. This is another one of the "secrets" to success online.

    We often think that if we offer as many products and touch on as many topics as possible, we will do much better - when in reality it is the opposite that helps you reach success.

    Here is a profound quote from Bruce Lee;

    I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.

    Why do you think he said this?

    This applies to everything in life. Including making money online with a website or blog site. Master on topic at a time, until you find success with it.

    Let's review

    Improve your user-experience of your site. This alone will put you in the right place to benefit from each one of your new visitors as much as possible.

    Don't be too broad. Don't try to teach on too many topics at a time, you are not presenting yourself as a master in all of these topics doing this, instead, you are presenting yourself as just another guy from the bunch. You are not standing out. And you want to stand out.

    I know you want to help others in every area of their life, and that is great, but in this online marketing game that is not the best way to go.

    What do you do when you need help with a specific problem? You go to an expert, right.

    And you much rather go to an expert who is a master solving than one problem than to someone who is trying to master solving all the problems. Who would you trust the most here?

    Now, once you have you have improved your entire site following such advice, you need to know that you do not need to have so many products for sale in order to make good money, In fact, even just one really helpful ebook or video course is enough.

    The next step would be to build your traffic and your subscribers list.

    Here is a simple diagram to help you out.



    Create a marketing plan that you can follow every single day. Work on your traffic consistently and always do your best to improve your conversion rates.

    I think this is enough for you to get going on the right foot.

    I wish you all of the best on this new journey and keep moving forward!


    Best regards!
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      Thanks for taking a lot of your time to share your knowledge. It's really appreciated!

      My apology for my late response to your kind post. I had some issues with the Forum posting protocol, and then got busy. Also, to be frank, there was a lot of info in your post and it took time to be able to take it all in, as I was overwhelmed.

      Next, I just realized recently that I had forgotten my original concept for my site. It was based on a quote from John Rampton. He said "You build a market for your product or service by earning the trust of your users. Put out the best information possible and once people trust you they will purchase everything you have for sale."

      My goal was therefore to put out awesome info on being happy and healthy in middle age and beyond. I felt that once people saw my site and how much I knew, as well as the photos and info of my health and knowledge, they would sign up for my newsletter, and then I could market to them in that way, already having established credibility.

      So therefore the function of the site was to 1) establish credibility and 2) get email addresses. I haven't done any promotion because I wanted to feel that the site was ready.

      Regarding my content being too wide, I really appreciate that advice and that you apparently are big on UX. I have tried to be careful regarding organizing the content, etc., but never thought about the width of the text. I will address that when I do the redesign. Thanks.

      I have added lots of images to break up the "wall of words", as well as add emotion.

      I am not (I hope) wasting your time by countering comments, but I just checked the index page and the "Finding Motivation" section, and almost all of the content has 3-4 sentences per paragraph. Do you feel they are still too long, or were you perhaps looking at other sections that I am missing?

      On to your comment "Remember; it is not about what you think looks good, it is about what actually works." I totally agree with that and thus really value your input. I have received a lot of comments that I need to update my site look and feel, but how can I know what this ephemeral updated site is supposed to look like? May I have some suggestions or even links to "good" sites?

      On to the Jam study. Knowing nothing about it, I googled it, and the first item I was attracted to was the following: https://jasoncollins.org/2014/08/06/...m-study-again/. I did skim it, and it was interesting. Having looked it up, I did realize that I'd seen it before. You might find the article interesting.

      You wrote "Here is the interesting fact; when you try to help everyone you help no one, but when you try to help someone you help everyone. Hope this makes sense to you." I

      t does in the context of having a target market, and I'm trying to apply it. I do realize that if one's market is too broad, then it's not a market at all. Am I deluded to think that "middle age" is not too broad?

      "Think about that one person you want to help and create your content thinking that one person only. Chances are, there are millions who are just like that one person."

      I want to help that one person who is middle-aged and who believes that their health and energy will inevitably decline, and things will only get worse from now on. I want to get them excited and to believe that their life can get better and better, and they can have a great life. This has been my goal from the beginning.

      "The more topics you want to teach, the fewer people you will reach."
      I value the intent you have, but I don't quite get this one.

      For example, if my site was filled with general advice, such as "stay active" and "eat right", I could see it, but my content is very specific.

      To draw a simile, I believe that a site on "home repair" could and should have sections on plumbing, electrical, etc., and would not be considered "too broad".

      That having been said, what I believe I have garnered from your comments, as well as those of others, is to offer materials, such as a course, that are what caused me to be in the shape I'm in.

      For that reason, I am back to considering packaging my site into a 13-part course, which would basically be the content of my site as it is, but with me reading the content and making some comments on it. I might even delete or severely pare-down the content on the site. May I have your opinion?

      And finally, your advice "Create a marketing plan that you can follow every single day." I'd love to, but since I don't believe I have the site ready to promote as is, I need to make the changes, namely 1) Redesign the site look and feel and 2) Create a compelling product.

      So thanks again so much for your kindness to write out such good advice for me. I truly appreciate it. I'd also appreciate any comments or responses you may have to my above points.
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  • Profile picture of the author Tony Marriott
    Hi Brian,

    It seems there has been a lot of good advice in this thread. So I'll try not to repeat what has a ready been said. But happy to give you my opinion on a few things.

    First off you do have a lot of potential with what you are trying to do. I'll qualify that.
    1. You have a story to tell
    2. You have yourself as proof/evidence.
    3. You have (achieved) something that a lot of people want.
    4. You have taken action to try and create a website/business around yourself.

    Health, fitness, weight loss is a huge market.


    Unfortunately you have made quite a few errors. I mean this as genuine constructive criticism. Also I don't think I can list/cover every angle here are it covers a wide range of subjects. So I'll stick to the basics.

    1. If you want a business you need to figure out what you want to sell. Of course you should be selling yourself. You are very fit, trim, healthy and active for a person of your age. Exceptionally so. That is your hook/USP etc.
    Hover that means you ned to sell something that achieves (or leads people to) what you have done. NOT PLR, not even other peoples products. Unless you used the to get to where you are! You offer yourself as an example, and expert and then sell PLR - not good. Devalues you and your brand.
    You mention a 13 step program. Sounds good. Videos of you working out, eating right, doing whatever it is you say should be done. This sounds like your initial focus.
    2. You also need a free product. Free could simply be a taster from your main course. You need a free product because you MUST build a list. Then you market to your list. Initially your 13 step program and then any other 'quality' affiliate products if you like.
    3. You need a sales funnel. i.e. Email sign-up for the free offers and email promotions to paid offers. After your 13 step program you can create even higher ticket items or consider monthly memberships etc. i.e. Every month they get personal tips, guides and a plan from you (everyone gets the same .
    4. Now you need sign-ups and sales. So lets move to your website. Sorry Brian but it's just not good. Is it a website? is it a blog? is it a sales page? It's really a bit of everything and so fails at being any one thing.
    My first impression when I look at the site is chaotic. I don't know what to look at or where to look so I scan instead of reading. Nothing hold my focus.
    Far to many images and they don't seem to match the story. Far to many links taking me everywhere. You have free ebooks (PLR????), sign up to my newsletter, a place to complain!!?????? Text /video version options. And I never found any link to your 13 step program.

    Oh yes the text. I am middle aged and my eyesight is not as good as it used to be and I struggled to comfortably read the text. Just too small and in too big a blocks.

    OK, so a few design issues but they are probably due to the fact that you don't have a clear idea of your objectives.

    The front page probably wants to be more like a sales page. Focus on your 13 step program. Show off yourself, your credentials and credibility. Pitch a course that got you where you are. Make sure people can buy it from the front page.

    To that end I would engage a copyrighter (or read some copywriting/sales page writing training ) and a sales page designer. I wouldn't go with your WP techie. Unless he is also a sales page expert. It's not the same thing at all.

    Also have an exit-pop for free offer sign-up.

    For free sign-ups from paid ads have as specific landing page. It should specifically promote your free offer. It may be a cut down/rehashed version of the sales page.

    You can keep the blog/articles sections. That way you can bring traffic to the site via organic search BUT every post should be bringing your visitors to your opt-in or your sales page. No point in having visitors if they never see a sales pitch.

    Throw away you ebook store/PLR stuff. You are better than that. Also it detracts from your main product (yours!). If you want a store on the back end what about supplements, proteins, treadmills, weights even gym clothing?


    Your sections are really too long. Consider breaking them up into blog post size articles and linking to each other (AND your sales page/opt-in). It may simply be too much information and again detract from what you are trying to sell. I know it's a lot of content but it broadens your 'niche'. You need to be narrowing your niche initially.
    So to summarize.

    1. Decide on what you are selling/what your product is.
    2. Target the front page of your site to that product. Get a pro to do that page for you.
    3. Create a specific opt-in free offer page for PPC.
    4. Get rid of all the ebook/PLR stuff. Add Supplements and physical products if you want a store.
    5. Link all posts etc. to your sales page/opt-in page.
    6. Use email list to promote your product and any up-sell products you can create. Or even high quality affiliate product (to anyone who doesn't buy into your products)


    Good luck.
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  • Profile picture of the author HollyK
    I just went to the site. I would probably like you in person - but I can't see "you" anywhere on that website.

    My first point of confusion is that it's Middle Age dot ORG - not .com. When I see a dotOrg, I'm looking for a non-profit, and when I don't see one, or even a club, I'm confused.

    If you keep the site on that domain name, perhaps you could consider creating a virtual club for people who consider themselves middle aged.

    Maybe give them weekly challenges, invite them to share their stories, help them feel like a community.

    That could be a freemium model where some content is free and some is behind a membership paywall. If the offer is good enough, people might subscribe like they would a magazine, but everyone I know in that age group is very careful with their money, so they'd really need to get something from your site that they aren't getting from AARP.

    When I think of what interests people in their 70's and above, I think about things like audio books (someone reading to them), story starters to share their creative writing, maybe a place to show off a craft they made by hand (sweaters, pillows, woodcarving, etc.), word searches, simple exercises, things like that.

    I invite you to reimagine this as a new community with you as the host, since you mentioned wanting a tribe.

    I'd get permission to use real peoples' photos. Interview people on a YouTube channel to tell their stories, and embed the videos in blog posts.

    You have an opportunity to create something really special here. I'd give up on the ebooks unless you have rights to read them out loud, or reprint them in large type.

    I'd choose a cleaner WordPress theme, too. There are so many out there that can streamline your content.

    Get clear on your message, post an introductory video showing you talking and some of you with the exercise, and until you can get other people interacting, just start sharing good content.

    P.S. You might try a companion Facebook group to start attracting attention to the new vibe of the site.

    Keep me posted!
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  • Profile picture of the author aziz20
    happy to know that
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      First off, my apology for my late response to your kind post. I had some issues with the Forum posting protocol, and then got busy. I truly appreciate the substantial amount of effort you put into it.

      Next, I just realized last night that I have forgotten my original concept for my site. It was based on a quote from John Rampton which I read. He said "You build a market for your product or service by earning the trust of your users. Put out the best information possible and once people trust you they will purchase everything you have for sale."
      My goal was therefore to put out awesome info on being happy and healthy in middle age and beyond. I felt that once people saw my site and how much I knew, as well as the photos and info of my health and knowledge, they would sign up for my newsletter, and then I could market to them in that way, already having established credibility. So therefore the function of the site was to 1) establish credibility and 2) get email addresses. I haven't done any promotion because I wanted to feel that the site was ready.
      Now, on to your advice, and my responses.
      I just went to the site. I would probably like you in person - but I can't see "you" anywhere on that website.
      If you have a chance, Holly, please go to the site and look at the animated GIF on the left side, a little bit below the big banner at the top.
      But your point is well-taken. I do need to put "myself" out there more. I did mention in my post that "I have made arrangements to get a short (2-3 minute) professional video recorded of me doing kettlebell training, sandbag training and animal flow training, which is training that I do 6 days a week. I would use this to establish credibility and then use another 3 minutes or so to explain my program."

      My first point of confusion is that it's Middle Age dot ORG - not .com. When I see a dotOrg, I'm looking for a non-profit, and when I don't see one, or even a club, I'm confused.

      I also own middleage.net, and your suggestion seems good. Do you feel that a .net would be a substantial upgrade?

      If you keep the site on that domain name, perhaps you could consider creating a virtual club for people who consider themselves middle aged. Maybe give them weekly challenges, invite them to share their stories, help them feel like a community.

      This is also a good idea even if I do switch this over to the .net domain. I want to engage people, and this has been a quandary for me for a long time, so thanks.

      That could be a freemium model where some content is free and some is behind a membership paywall.

      Right now I am leaning toward creating the video course of my 13-step program, and charge for that. In addition, I may pare-down my content quite a bit. I would allow some info and an overview, but people would have to pay for the course, maybe $49 to start with,, and perhaps raise it later. What do you think?

      When I think of what interests people in their 70's and above,

      No offense, but according to most sources, "middle age" is from 45 - 65.
      I invite you to reimagine this as a new community with you as the host, since you mentioned wanting a tribe.

      Well-said, and I appreciate the encouragement.

      I'd get permission to use real peoples' photos. Interview people on a YouTube channel to tell their stories, and embed the videos in blog posts.
      You have an opportunity to create something really special here.

      Thanks, Holly.

      I'd choose a cleaner WordPress theme, too. There are so many out there that can streamline your content.

      Can you send me the URL's of some sites that you feel look good?

      Get clear on your message, post an introductory video showing you talking and some of you with the exercise, and until you can get other people interacting, just start sharing good content.

      Right. This is what the "... short (2-3 minute) professional video recorded of me doing kettlebell training, sandbag training and animal flow training, which is training that I do 6 days a week" is all about

      P.S. You might try a companion Facebook group to start attracting attention to the new vibe of the site.

      Thanks, Holly. How would I drive traffic there?

      Once again, thanks again so much.
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  • Profile picture of the author bobmcalister
    have you done any adwords ? they are especially cheap on youtube.
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    • Profile picture of the author KnowOneKnows
      I haven't yet, although that's a great idea, and I'll put it on my list of things to try out. I was unaware of AdWords on YT. Thanks!
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  • Profile picture of the author steemseo
    Frist you open analytics account and check hit map (where your visitors leaves your website), user behavior is important thing in blogging or business. Steps of engagement is
    1. Collect data
    2. Produce quality products
    3. Rearrange and fix errors
    4. Give your researched products to your customers defiantly they buy.
    If you have any other questions you can ask me anytime on pm
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